New F1 Qualifying format for 2016

The meeting of the F1 strategy group on 23rd February discussed the introduction of a new qualifying format. The new format was unanimously accepted by the group and maybe introduced in the 2016 Formula 1 season if it passes further evaluation.

The new qualifying format will continue over 3 separate sessions. The main change is that the slowest drivers will be eliminated during the sessions at 90 second intervals.

Qualifying Session 1

This will be held over 16 minutes. After 7 minutes the slowest driver will be eliminated and every 90 seconds the next slowest driver will be eliminated until the end of the session. In total 7 drivers will be eliminated and 15 will progress to session 2.

Qualifying Session 2

The second session will be held over 15 minutes. After 5 minutes the slowest driver will be eliminated and every 90 seconds the next slowest driver will be eliminated until the end of the session. In total 7 drivers will be eliminated and 8 will progress to session 3.

Qualifying Session 3

The final session will be held over 14 minutes. After 5 minutes the slowest driver will be eliminated and every 90 seconds the next slowest driver will be eliminated until the end of the session leaving two drivers a further 90 seconds to fight it out for pole position.

I look forward to seeing how this plays out! It should make things more dramatic with drivers needing to be more consistent during qualifying.

Driver of the Day

The F1 Commission has also agreed to introduce a Driver of the day award to increase viewer participation. The new award will be introduce in association with Formula 1 broadcasters.

The intention is to set-up an online vote and viewers will be encouraged to vote during the Grand Prix. The winner will be announced at the end of the race and presented their ‘Driver of the Day’ prize.